Chapter 855

At Kingsley Tech, Emily Whitaker earned millions annually in salary.

Bonuses and allowances piled up, making money the least of her concerns.

Emily lowered her gaze, then suddenly threw her arms wide. "I want fame!"

Evelyn Sinclair blinked, suppressing a laugh. "That... might be challenging."

Far less practical than accumulating wealth.

After her brief fantasy, Emily dragged Evelyn to her lab, showcasing her latest inventions.

Scientists truly had different brains.

Most women relaxed by shopping or dining.

Emily's idea of relaxation? Research.

Worried about her friend's health, Evelyn insisted they hit the gym.

They informed Preston Sinclair and slipped out.

Emily was a pro at skipping work—clearly a habit.

Scrolling her phone, she announced, "There's a new gym nearby. Let's try it."

Evelyn agreed. Closer proximity meant Emily might actually go regularly.

The gym's sleek interior impressed them immediately.

A staff member approached.

Evelyn's gaze caught the absurd sign: "Annual Membership: $850,000. No Negotiations. Beautiful Women: FREE!"

Her lips twitched. Sketchy much?

Emily, intrigued, pulled out her card. "I'll take the annual pass."

The drowsy receptionist startled. Business at this hour?

The stunning woman before him looked familiar.

Before he could place her, a voice exclaimed, "Evelyn Sinclair?"

She turned. Zachary Whitmore—Nathan Blackwood's friend.

She vaguely remembered him. When photos of Evelyn and Xavier Delmont trended, Zachary had publicly clarified it wasn't Nathan.

After that, he'd vanished from elite circles.

Small world.

Zachary rushed over, elated. "Evelyn! It's really you!" His enthusiasm puzzled her.

"Mr. Whitmore?"

He rubbed his hands nervously. Regret gnawed at him.

His attempt to help Nathan had backfired spectacularly.

Nathan had severed all Blackwood Industries' ties with the Whitmores.

Months later, their business crumbled. Even the contract termination payout couldn't revive their fortunes.

Zachary became a social pariah.

This gym was his desperate bid to re-enter that world—catering exclusively to the wealthy.

He beamed. "Ms. Sinclair, no membership needed. Our facilities are yours anytime."

Evelyn offered a polite, distant smile.

"Not necessary. I'm accompanying my friend."

Emily, indifferent to the owner, studied the price list.

Zachary's eyes gleamed. He instructed the receptionist, "40% discount for Ms. Sinclair's guest."

The receptionist nodded.

Evelyn thanked him but didn't argue over the trivial sum. Zachary wasn't poor—just desperate to please.

"What activities interest you? Running? Yoga? Our instructors are top-tier professionals."

Emily pointed. "Meditation. No movement required."

Silence fell.